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Society: Christianity

An Isolated Road from Addiction to Redemption” is an inspiring tale of perseverance

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MEADVILLE, Pa. (PRWEB)

“The Journey Back: An Isolated Road from Addiction to Redemption”: a poignant example of faith and determination. “The Journey Back: An Isolated Road from Addiction to Redemption” is the creation of published author Lesley A. Victoria, a resident of Pennsylvania and loving mother.

An excerpt from the book shares, “This book depicts the story of Lesley’s journey from the depths of darkness and into the light of a forgiving and gracious God. This is not intended to be a self-help book, but rather a story of hope and forgiveness; hope for better days beyond addiction, and forgiveness to oneself for past mistakes and missteps.

“The reader will learn of Lesley’s struggles from a raging drug addiction to the shock of a cancer diagnosis, followed by a massive stroke which resulted in the paralysis of her left side. This book depicts the on-going physical struggles Lesley experiences daily, but it also illustrates the numerous and awe-inspiring epiphanies which have brought her back into God’s grace.

“‘The Journey Back’ is a triumph over the demons that have always remained one step behind, sometimes appearing perilously close. Lesley’s story has been written to help others who are living inside the black hole of addiction, know that there is healing Light waiting on the other side.”

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Lesley A. Victoria’s new book is a testimony of strength and faith through addiction, stroke, and paralysis.

Through an emotional retelling, the author takes readers through a series of difficult moments in hopes of inspiring others to seek a close relationship with Jesus and find solace in his love.

View a synopsis of “The Journey Back: An Isolated Road from Addiction to Redemption” on YouTube.

Consumers can purchase “The Journey Back: An Isolated Road from Addiction to Redemption” at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries about “The Journey Back: An Isolated Road from Addiction to Redemption”, contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919.

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Society: Christianity

God Speaks to His Children in Many Ways, Including Nature

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Through a gentle whisper in the wind or a beautiful note from a songbird, He gave me hope.


ROXBORO, N.C (PRWEB)

Author Marty R. Perkins shares how God has spoken to him through nature in Deer Stand Revelations ($16.49, paperback, 9781662815317; $8.99, e-book, 9781662815324).

Perkins has spent his life seeking to be outdoors as much as possible. After his conversion, these hours in the stand or at the lake’s edge became a beautiful time of communion with his Creator. In this volume, Perkins relates the purpose and meaning he has found in the natural world around him.

“God showed me purpose in His creation and taught me lessons through successes and failures afield. Through a gentle whisper in the wind or a beautiful note from a songbird, He gave me hope. In an errant shot or misplaced arrow, He taught me humility,” said Perkins.

Marty R. Perkins is an outdoor enthusiast from North Carolina. He grew up on a small, family-owned tobacco farm and continues to enjoy spending time with his family in the great outdoors. He is currently a Sunday school teacher and ordained deacon in his local church.

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Xulon Press, a division of Salem Media Group, is the world’s largest Christian self-publisher, with more than 15,000 titles published to date. Deer Stand Revelations is available online through xulonpress.com/bookstore, amazon.com, and barnesandnoble.com.

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Society: Christianity

Spellers and Sidebotham to Headline Kanuga Christian Formation Gathering June 14-17

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The Rev. Canon Dr. Stephanie Spellers and The Rev. Jay Sidebotham serving as keynoters for its Christian formation event, Kanuga begins its transition from virtual to in-person events this summer.

“There will be time for worship, spiritual growth, reflection, imagining, dreaming and mapping our future with the hope of endless possibilities.” —Cookie Cantwell, conference coordinator


HENDERSONVILLE, N.C. (PRWEB)

With The Rev. Canon Dr. Stephanie Spellers and The Rev. Jay Sidebotham serving as keynoters for its Christian formation event, Kanuga begins its transition from virtual to in-person events this summer.

The Rev. Canon Dr. Stephanie Spellers serves as Presiding Bishop Michael Curry’s Canon for Evangelism, Reconciliation and Creation Care. A well-known author, her latest book, “The Church Cracked Open: Disruption, Decline, and New Hope for Beloved Community,” was released this month by Church Publishing. Curry says, “This book will make a profound difference for the church in this moment in history.”

The Rev. Jay Sidebotham is director of RenewalWorks, a ministry of Forward Movement, and Associate Rector at St. James, Madison Avenue in New York. RenewalWorks seeks to build cultures of discipleship in Episcopal congregations, with a singular focus on spiritual growth among congregants. He has served parishes in Washington, DC, NYC, Illinois and North Carolina. A graduate of Trinity College and Union Theological Seminary, prior to seminary study, he worked in New York in animation, illustration and advertising. He appreciates the opportunity to produce cartoons for the wider church, describing the joys and challenges of parish ministry.

While some presenters will conduct sessions virtually, the majority, including both Spellers and Sidebotham, will be at Kanuga for the event. We want to “show everyone what a safe, socially distanced, nourishing time in the spirit can look and feel like,” says Spellers.

Kanuga Christian Formation, created in 1928, will be the first event held in-person since Kanuga suspended operations for several months in 2020.

“It’s been an incredibly hard year. We are enthusiastic and joyful to be able to begin anew, and to once again serve as a holy ground for the sacred connections between each other and Creation,” says Executive VP for Mission Jimmy Haden.

The theme for the gathering, “Light on the Path,” reflects the difficulties of the past year as well as hope for the future. Cookie Cantwell, event coordinator, says that her team of volunteers is working hard to provide an experience that will help participants navigate the challenges and joys of life, formation, and ministry. “There are lights in our lives that show us the way, and we need those lights so we can follow Christ and be the people of God that God wants us to be.”

“The gathering will allow time for conversations as we consider the path that we have traveled during the past twelve months. There will be time for worship, spiritual growth, reflection, imagining, dreaming and mapping our future with the hope of endless possibilities. The paths that we will travel together will share the light of hope, opportunities, awareness, laughter, joy, and friendships,” Cantwell says.

Kanuga Christian Formation is open to all who want to learn and to gather with old friends and new, both lay and ordained.

For a full list of presenters, program snapshot, schedule, registration, rates, and lodging information, visit Kanuga.org/Conferences. Registration is open through May 24.

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Society: Social Services

62% of Retirees Think Social Security COLA Needs a Minimum Guarantee of 3%

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“When the prices on the goods and services that retirees depend on go through the roof, their Social Security benefits don’t buy as much, and that causes enormous financial stress for all retirees.” says Mary Johnson, Medicare and Social Security Policy Analyst for the Senior Citizens League


WASHINGTON (PRWEB)

More than 62 percent of retirees think that Social Security cost of living adjustments (COLA) need a guaranteed minimum, according to a new survey by The Senior Citizens League (TSCL). In January of this year, the annual COLA raised Social Security benefits by only 1.3 percent, making it one of the lowest ever paid. But since then, “inflation has exploded,” says Mary Johnson, a Social Security policy analyst for The Senior Citizens League.

The survey, which had 1,125 participants, was conducted from mid – January through April 20, 2021, and coincided with one of the stiffest increases in inflation in a decade. Johnson researches the effect of rising prices on Social Security benefits. Through the end of December 2020, inflation as measured by the CPI-W— the index used to calculate the annual COLA — was just 1.4% for the year. “But as of the end of March 2021, the CPI-W was more than 3 percent higher than this time a year ago,” she says.

“This is a inflation pattern I haven’t seen before,” Johnson says. Inflation had completely flat – lined in first quarter of last year, which included January and February, well before COVID-19 shuttered businesses and sent the economy into a sudden tail spin in mid-March. But by the end of first quarter 2021, inflation erupted, growing by 1.4 percent versus zero over first quarter 2020. The last time inflation was growing that fast was nine years ago in 2012, but that year was also proceeded by another year of higher inflation, instead of the deflation in 2020.

“When the prices on the goods and services that retirees depend on go through the roof, their Social Security benefits don’t buy as much, and that causes enormous financial stress for all retirees. Johnson compiled a baker’s dozen list of the items whose costs are among the fastest growing. “Newly immunized grandparents will need to budget about 31.2 percent more for car rentals when visiting the grand kids,” Johnson says. “And I’m putting off replacing a failing washing machine. I don’t want to pay 24.2% more to get a new one now.”

Johnson also points out that the fastest growing cost list DOES NOT include the more usual “suspects” — prescription drugs and medical costs. “This is not because those costs didn’t increase,” Johnson says. “They just didn’t increase as much as the other items that made the list,” she says. Physician services were up 5.3 percent, but prescription drugs as measured by the CPI-W were down 2.3 percent from March 2020. Housing costs grew slightly faster than the COLA, up by 2 percent.

Fastest Growing Retiree Costs From March 2020 to March 2021

Car and truck rental – 31.2%

Laundry equipment – 24.2%

Gasoline – 22.2%

Home heating oil – 20.2%

Beef roasts – 11.2%

Pork roasts, chops – 10.5%

Citrus fruits – 9.8%

Used cars and trucks – 9.4%

Toilet paper, paper towels – 7.9%

Apples – 7.4%

Canned tuna – 7.1%

Haircuts – 5.9%

Care of invalids and elderly in home – 5.9%

Source: Consumer Price Index data, Bureau of Labor Statistics, March 2021

Compiled by The Senior Citizens League

The Senior Citizens League is working with Members of Congress to have legislation introduced that would strengthen Social Security benefits by tying the annual COLA to the Consumer Price Index for the Elderly (CPI-E), and by providing a guaranteed minimum COLA of no less than 3 percent.

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With 1.2 million supporters, The Senior Citizens League is one of the nation’s largest nonpartisan seniors’ groups. Its mission is to promote and assist members and supporters, to educate and alert senior citizens about their rights and freedoms as U.S. Citizens, and to protect and defend the benefits senior citizens have earned and paid for. The Senior Citizens League is a proud affiliate of The Retired Enlisted Association. Visit http://www.SeniorsLeague.org for more information.

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Society: Christianity

Romero Britto Sets New Record With Million Dollar Artwork Sold, “The First Supper”

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With the asking price of one million dollars, The First Supper, a 60″ x 120″ acrylic and oil on canvas masterpiece was recently sold to an American private collector.


MIAMI (PRWEB)

The internationally celebrated visual artist Romero Britto sets a new record-breaking sale of a million-dollar asking price for an acrylic and oil on canvas masterpiece (60″ x 120″), “The First Supper” to a private American businessman and art collector. Britto, the founder of “The Happy Art Movement”, has exhibited in the most prestigious galleries and museums in over 120 countries, including the Louvre Museum and was the first living visual artist to present his work at the Soumaya Museum. Romero Britto has also created numerous public and private art installations, not to mention the largest in the history of London’s Hyde Park. His artworks are available through the ROMERO BRITTO Fine Art Gallery on Miami Beach’s famous Lincoln Road, in over 200 fine art gallery partners worldwide and online at http://www.shopbritto.com

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Society: Christianity

Karen and Emily Rangel’s newly released “Silas and His Stinky Socks” is a delightful tale of one pup’s love of stinky socks

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MEADVILLE, Pa. (PRWEB)

“Silas and His Stinky Socks”: a charming tale of doggy mischief. “Silas and His Stinky Socks” is the creation of published authors, Emily Rangel, an enthusiastic dog lover, and her mother, Karen Rangel, a devoted pre-school teacher.

The authors share, “Silas, the fun, loving dog, loves stinky socks! He goes around the house looking for stinky socks to put under his mama’s bed. He is so thankful for the socks that he has found and thanks God for all that he has. Let Silas take you through his journey around the house.”

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Karen and Emily’s new book is certain to delight readers of any age.

With real photos of the authors dog and a sweet tale, readers will enjoy joining along on Silas’ adventure in his search for stinky socks.

View a synopsis of “Silas and His Stinky Socks” on YouTube.

Consumers can purchase“Silas and His Stinky Socks” at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries about “Silas and His Stinky Socks”, contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919.

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Society: Christianity

A Beginning Revelation in the Daily Inspirations in Search of Peace and Serenity” is an inspiring guide for alcoholic’s in recovery

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MEADVILLE, Pa. (PRWEB)

“The Lead: A Beginning Revelation in the Daily Inspirations in Search of Peace and Serenity”: a potent asset to those who seek recovery. “The Lead: A Beginning Revelation in the Daily Inspirations in Search of Peace and Serenity” is the creation of published author, RMA, a dedicated recovering alcoholic, veteran, and retiree from the engineering field.

The Lead: Daily Inspirations in Search of Peace and Serenity is essential reading for those who are just starting out in an alcohol recovery plan. It presents a substantial, unsparing, and deeply moving account of the day-by-day, meeting-by-meeting, step-by-step recovery of an alcoholic as he finds his way through the twelve steps of Alcoholics Anonymous.

RMA’s journey is also excellent inspiration for those living the twelve steps and seeking to awaken their past experiences as they recover from the trauma of addiction.

While there have been many books written over the years on recovery and the search for peace and serenity, The Lead is significantly different in that the author included dialogues from actual AA meetings (including the responses of group members–all anonymous, of course), fresh material for daily meditation, and a sensitive story about one man’s recovery, detailing real-life use of all twelve steps in the AA program.

Now a recovering, sober alcoholic, RMA provides an invaluable source of reference and review for all those who have been through the steps and are searching for solutions or spiritual renewal.

Following AA tradition, the author, a member of an AA group in Cincinnati, Ohio, will remain anonymous.

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, RMA’s new book is a great resource for any individual who is seeking help with addiction to alcohol.

Following the traditional 12-step approach, this title provides an opportunity for reflection as a vital, daily portion of overcoming alcoholism.

View a synopsis of “The Lead: A Beginning Revelation in the Daily Inspirations in Search of Peace and Serenity” on YouTube.

Consumers can purchase “The Lead: A Beginning Revelation in the Daily Inspirations in Search of Peace and Serenity” at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries about “The Lead: A Beginning Revelation in the Daily Inspirations in Search of Peace and Serenity”, contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919.

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Society: Christianity

Meoshi Crumedy’s newly released “Shut Up and Pray” is a self-reflective journey through the negative to a more honest, positive faith

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MEADVILLE, Pa. (PRWEB)

“Shut Up and Pray”: an inspirational tale of the power of prayer. “Shut Up and Pray” is the creation of published author, Meoshi Crumedy, a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, and graduate of Southwest Mississippi Community College.

Meoshi writes, “This book shares powerful, remarkable, and life-changing stories of how God revealed his grace. It discusses how to shut all the doors to self-incorporating prayer, faith, hope, and love and believing the Word of God to come forth in life. This book is about self-discovery moments that may sometimes reveal some very ugly parts of a person while also discovering grace in the process.

An all-around great reading experience, it’s about dreams, friendships, parenthood, joy, pain, and emotional turbulence of life. This gives account of personality traits that can stagnate your spiritual growth and stagnate the growth of the church while discussing some personal experiences.

May you find light inside of darkness and the grace of an unchanging God in an ever-changing world. Even through times of adversity, the good and the bad God is painting on the canvas of your life, and if you become unsinkable in the process, that portrait will be the most beautiful design of the grace of God.

I am so very grateful to share my world with you. May this book inspire and strengthen your faith, helping you rise above the mountains of adversity.

Quit being comfortable where you are and ‘shut up and pray.’”

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Meoshi Crumedy’s new book encourages readers to use prayer as a tool to overcome problems during difficult times.

With relevant biblical passages, alongside personal stories of the mysteries observed within the authors life, this title offers a first hand account of the power of prayer.

View a synopsis of “Shut Up and Pray” on YouTube.

Consumers can purchase “Shut Up and Pray” at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries about “Shut Up and Pray”, contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919.

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Society: Christianity

Nicholas Williams’ newly released “How to Live a Life H.E.L.PFully” is an honest examination of human nature and our capacity for growth through faith

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MEADVILLE, Pa. (PRWEB)

“How to Live a Life H.E.L.PFully”: an inspiring testament to the importance of persistence. “How to Live a Life H.E.L.PFully” is the creation of published author, Nicholas Williams, an eleven year veteran of the Army who served three combat tours to Iraq.

Williams shares, “How to Live a Life H.umbly E.xperiencing L.ife’s P.urpose fully is a inspired book that God has allowed to exist in today’s time in which we live. A time where it seems that most are confused, and think that his/her mistakes in life has counted them out, and because some in churches today are doing a good job at masking flaws and not willing to share, so that those who are struggling in faith can benefit, leaves that struggling Christian brother or sister to feel like they are an isle to themselves, and that is not what Jesus prayed before going to the cross. He prayed that we would all be one just as he and his Father are one. This book seeks to address that God is still God though we may fall at times in our Christian journey. The book seeks to point to the bible for examples in simplifying our Christian journey. There are some personal testimonies within the book for those that may need to know they are not alone. Salvation only by faith in Jesus Christ and faith alone is the basis for how to live a life h.e.l.p.fully. This book is not about religious talk, but about spiritual growth in Jesus Christ as Savior and sometime that growth comes with some failures to show us where we are in him versus where we think we are in him. Failure should not be looked at a sign of illegitimacy as adopted children in him, but should serve as a mirror to grow and actually grow. Proverbs 24:16.”

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Nicholas Williams’ new book examines the power of one’s faith in seeking their true purpose.

Offering personal anecdotes and relevant Scripture, Williams hopes to inspire those who may feel they have fallen too far from grace to pick up their purpose and push forward in their faith.

View a synopsis of “How to Live a Life H.E.L.PFully” on YouTube.

Consumers can purchase “How to Live a Life H.E.L.PFully” at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries about “How to Live a Life H.E.L.PFully”, contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919.

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Society: Social Services

Calculating the Cost of Aging at Home

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OMAHA, Neb. (PRWEB)

There is no place quite like home. This sentiment is especially understood by the increasing number of older adults who would prefer to age in place. Over the last year this desire has only intensified, as many families consider this the safer option when compared to facility living for older adults. However, questions around what home care entails, what it costs and what financial assistance and resources are available remain a barrier.

“Many seniors want to remain in their own household, and this trend has only increased during the pandemic,” said Lakelyn Hogan, Ph.D., gerontologist and caregiver advocate at Home Instead. “As caregivers and family members navigate their loved one’s desire to age in place, it’s important to address their questions about options available to them financially and how they can get help.”

In-home care services, including personal care, transportation, meal preparation, household help and companionship – a growing concern for aging adults during the pandemic – go a long way in combatting the impact of isolation amongst this population. There are many benefits, primarily the sense of independence seniors maintain.

One of the most overlooked benefits of home care is the flexibility. While some clients require services 24 hours a day, seven days a week, others prefer only a few shifts a week. The needs of each individual are unique, and professional caregivers are often times able to tailor their schedules to each client. Depending on the level of care needed, home care has the potential to save thousands of dollars a month, compared to nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

A common misconception is that home care is not an option due to associated costs. In fact, according to an AP-NORC long-term care trends poll, many Americans overestimate the cost of home care and underestimate the cost of assisted living communities. This is why taking the time to research and explore all options before making a decision is crucial. Hogan addresses questions surrounding funding for senior care:


  • Q: Do I have to pay out-of-pocket for senior care?

  • A: Historically, private pay has been the main way people covered the cost of senior care. But there are many options for almost any budget, including long-term care insurance, veteran’s benefits and even Medicare Advantage plans.

  • Q: Does Medicare cover the cost of in-home care?

  • A: Medicare insurance itself generally will not pay for in-home senior care. However, recent rule changes by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services could allow Medicare Advantage plans to cover a variety of senior support services in the home. The best place to start is speaking with your insurance company about what care could be covered for you or your loved one.

  • Q: Does long-term care insurance help pay for senior care?

  • A: The answer depends on the individual policy. Talk to the insurance company or agent to find out if the LTC policy covers in-home care – and, if so, what types of services will be reimbursed. Knowing the level of coverage you have from your insurance is a vital step as your loved ones age. Learn more with these LTCI resources.

  • Q: How can children or grandchildren pay for senior care for a loved one?

  • A: Many families want to see those they love age with independence and dignity in the family home – or whatever setting the senior prefers. Adult children and grandchildren can contribute funds in equal shares or proportionally to support their family member’s needs. Before initiating this type of plan, you might consider seeking the counsel of an attorney for certain things to consider, such as cash gifting regulations.

  • Q: Are there any grants I can apply for to pay for senior care?

  • A: Yes! Home Instead partners with HFC® to administer grants for deserving families providing care to older adults with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. These grants cover the full cost of Home Instead services for a period. To date, there have been 313,200 hours of free care provided through the program. Learn more and apply for a Dementia Home Care Grant. While HFC® is specific to dementia and Alzheimer’s care, there are other local programs worth exploring among area agencies for grants to help fund senior care.

There are many resources available for those who are interested in learning about the cost of care. The most important thing is to make a plan and determine what is best for aging loved ones. For more information about funding, visit: http://www.homeinstead.com/cost-of-care-for-aging-adults/ or start a conversation with the aging experts at your local Home Instead office.

ABOUT HOME INSTEAD

Founded in 1994 in Omaha, Nebraska, the Home Instead® franchise network provides personalized care, support and education to enhance the lives of aging adults and their families. Today, the network is the world’s leading provider of in-home care services for older adults, with more than 1,200 independently owned and operated franchises that provide more than 90 million hours of care annually throughout the United States and 14 other countries. Local Home Instead offices employ approximately 90,000 CAREGivers℠ worldwide who provide basic support services that enable older adults to live safely and comfortably in their own homes for as long as possible. Home Instead franchise owners partner with clients and their family members to help meet varied individual needs. Services span the care continuum – from providing personal care to specialized Alzheimer’s care and hospice support. Also available are family caregiver education and support resources. Visit HomeInstead.com. Connect with us on Facebook and Twitter.

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